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Fuelled by the rise in civil conflicts, the world is experiencing the highest rate of displaced people on record. We hear daily reports of the destruction that warfare, dictatorships and terrorist organisations create but there are also many other ways that a state may persecute its citizens or fail to offer them protection from persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.

The Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees is clear: people have the right to seek asylum from persecution and Contracting States will not impose penalties despite an asylum seeker’s illegal entry. Despite being a Contracting State, Australia has implemented mandatory detention and offshore processing for asylum seekers that come by boat, drawing criticism throughout the international community over its treatment of asylum seekers.

The Refugee Rights Night will explore the rights of aslyum seekers. Our expert panel will unravel the complex and ever changing legal framework in relation to asylum seekers, explain Australia's obligations under International law and highlight how and where Australia can improve.

This event is catered and there will be an opportunity to speak with the panelists and other organisations involved in advocating for refugee rights after the panel has concluded.